This Savory Pumpkin Pizza is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. Topped with creamy pumpkin puree, caramelized onions, and melted havarti cheese, this pizza is a delicious twist on the traditional. Let’s jump into the ingredients that make this the best pizza you will ever eat!
INGREDIENTS
- Ready-to-bake pizza dough (1): The foundation of your pizza, providing the crispy crust that holds all the delicious toppings.
- Pumpkin puree (1.5 cups): The star ingredient, adding creaminess and a subtle sweetness to the pizza.
- Sweet onion (1, diced): Caramelized to perfection, these onions bring a deep, rich flavor to the pizza.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Enhances the natural sweetness of the onions as they caramelize.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a savory depth of flavor to the pumpkin mixture.
- Shallot (1, diced): A subtle onion flavor that complements the garlic and pumpkin.
- Fresh thyme (½ tablespoon, chopped): A fragrant herb that adds a touch of earthiness to the pizza.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Season the pumpkin mixture and the toppings to your preference.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the pumpkin base.
- Freshly grated havarti cheese (2 cups): A creamy, mild cheese that melts beautifully on top of the pizza.
- Arugula (1 cup): A peppery green that adds freshness and contrast to the rich toppings.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Used for cooking the onions and to drizzle over the pizza for added richness.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to warm up as the oven heats.
- Step 2:
- In a pan over medium-low heat, cook half of the diced onions in a drizzle of olive oil. Stir occasionally until they soften and become fragrant and translucent, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar halfway through cooking to enhance their sweetness. Continue stirring until the onions are caramelized.
- Step 3:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, minced garlic, diced shallot, chopped thyme, and the remaining half of the onions. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix everything well.
- Step 4:
- Prepare the pizza dough according to the package instructions. Flatten the dough into a circular shape to fit your pizza stone or baking sheet. You can use your hands or a rolling pin—whichever is easier.
- Step 5:
- Once the dough is ready, transfer it to the heated pizza stone (or baking sheet). Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly across the surface of the dough, making sure to leave a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Step 6:
- Add the caramelized onions on top of the pumpkin mixture, followed by a handful of fresh arugula. Sprinkle the freshly grated Havarti cheese generously over the pizza.
- Step 7:
- Bake the pizza according to the dough package instructions, typically for 10-12 minutes. For a crispier finish, bake the pizza for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Step 8:
- Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven, slice it, and enjoy your homemade savory pumpkin pizza!
Serving and Storage Tips
- This pizza is best served hot, straight out of the oven, when the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Pair it with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy crust or in the microwave for convenience.
Helpful Notes
- If you don't have a pizza stone, a baking sheet works just as well. The pizza stone helps create a crispier crust, but it's not essential.
- For an even deeper flavor, you can caramelize all of the onions instead of just half.
- Feel free to adjust the cooking time based on your preference for a softer or crispier crust.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Sarah suggests adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the pizza before serving for a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Chef John recommends sprinkling some red pepper flakes on top for a little heat.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- This pizza combines sweet, savory, and creamy flavors in every bite, thanks to the pumpkin, caramelized onions, and havarti cheese.
- It's a unique and delicious way to enjoy pumpkin, making it perfect for fall dinners.
- The arugula adds a fresh, peppery contrast to the richness of the other toppings, keeping the pizza light and flavorful.
VARIATIONS
- Try adding crispy bacon or pancetta for an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Swap out havarti for mozzarella or goat cheese for a different twist on the flavor profile.
- You can also add roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the pizza for more texture and flavor.